Paleo Sloppy Joes

Little did I know as I was writing this that March 18 is National Sloppy Joe Day! One of our favorite quick, easy weeknight dinners is a paleo, low-carb version of the classic Sloppy Joe. It comes together quickly, and the kids love it! My version omits the sugar and ketchup, using tomato paste, apple cider vinegar and a few drops of stevia (optional). For a paleo but slightly higher carbohydrate option, coconut sugar or maple syrup can be used. The batch can easily be doubled and reheated.

Paleo Sloppy Joes

Ingredients 1.5 pounds ground beef — grass-fed/grass-finished is ideal, 85% lean 15% fat recommended ¼ cup chopped yellow or white onion (If short on time, sometimes I will substitute 2 Tablespoons organic dried minced onion.) ¼ cup diced red or green pepper 1 to 2 Tablespoons chili powder blend 2 to 3 Tablespoons tomato paste. I use Kirkland organic. (Alternately, ¼ to ½ cup tomato puree can be used) 2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1 Tablespoon mustard Salt and pepper to taste. Smoked salt can be used if desired. Optional — A few drops stevia, or a tablespoon of your preferred sweetener Directions

1. In a large frying pan, brown ground beef until just beginning to brown. Add onion, red pepper, salt and chili powder. Mix thoroughly and cook until done and veggies are tender.
2. Add tomato paste, vinegar, mustard, and optional sweetener to the browned ground beef. Stir thoroughly together and simmer for a few minutes for the flavors to release. If a little dry add a small amount of water or broth. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
3. Serve on top of warmed or toasted Awesome Bunz and enjoy!

Makes 6 approximately 4-ounce servings.